Pauline Hoffmann, Ph.D., dean of the Jandoli School of Communications, says vision, community-orientation and activity are among the traits the search committee is seeking in the next president of St. Bonaventure University.
Due to medical reasons, Sr. Margaret Carney, O.S.F, resigned from a twelve-year term as university president.
According to Hoffmann, a member of the committee, Carney had a strong presence in the community. Hoffmann added she was exceptional at communicating and interacting with people.
“We don’t need someone that is going to just sit in the office,” said Hoffmann. “We need someone gregarious, willing to go interact in the campus community, surrounding community and alumni community.”
Meeting every two weeks, a committee comprised of a student, faculty members and board of trustee members work to find a fitting president for the university.
Working with the committee is search firm Witt/Kiefer. According to Hoffmann, the university has worked with the firm before for the dean of the business school position.
According to Haylei John, junior international studies major and the committee student representative, each member brings their own unique insights to the search.
“I’m personally looking for a president that values an inclusive and student-centered Bonaventure,” said John.
Adding to John’s expectations for a new president, other committee members have shared their requirements in a candidate.
“We need a leader. We need someone with vision that still incorporates the strategic plan,” said Hoffmann.
According to John, the search process has been organized. She added the members of the committee get along and everyone feels comfortable expressing various opinions.
Hoffmann explained the goals and timeline for the presidential search. Recently, the committee reviewed candidate applications. Currently the committee is preparing to interview candidates. In November, the university will bring candidates to tour campus.
According to Hoffmann, at the group’s December meeting, they hope to have a name of the president going into the new year.
Each member of the committee signs a confidentiality agreement. The agreement protects the candidate’s identity and positions they may hold currently.
Members of the committee describe being a part of it as rewarding, interesting and important.
“I just can’t express how honored I am to be on the committee,” said John. “I may be a student among accomplished and successful individuals, but each member values my input, ensuring me the student body is being heard.”
Hoffmann explains that she has been a part of many important things in her life but nothing compares to this search.
“ I have hired faculty before but hiring a president of a University is an entirely different level,” said Hoffmann.
fieldsbj14@bonaventure.edu
